CHAIRMAN Martyn Best has paid tribute to Everton Tigers coach Tony Garbelotto after he led the club to BBL Play-Off final glory.

Garbelotto had to contend with a host of injuries this season as well as Flo Larkai quitting for a move to Japan and visa problems delaying Trey Moore’s arrival.

However, in the face of adversity the Tigers delivered as Garbelotto added the play-off trophy to the BBL Cup he won last season.

“I’m delighted for Tony,” Best said.

“He’s had a lot to contend with this season but to finish it on a high with eight wins in a row and a trophy is magnificent.

“The switches Tony made in the final worked and he got his tactics spot on. He called it right last September when he put this team together. The fact we’ve ended up winning the play-offs proves he got his picks spot on.”

Best now faces a busy summer attempting to secure the necessary funding to ensure the Tigers can continue to progress.

“We’ve got to use winning the final as a springboard,” he said.

“It’s brilliant for when I speak to potential partners as I can demonstrate we’re a successful team both on and off the court.

“Basketball isn’t a rich sport and we depend on a lot of goodwill. Hopefully we can secure more sponsors and take the club forward.